The Ceiling for Humanoid Robots Is Not Algorithms, but Thermodynamics

Summary

The article argues that the bottleneck for humanoid robots is not algorithms but thermodynamic physical limits. On-device large model inference consumes 35-40W, while smooth control requires over 200W; heavier batteries consume more power, trapping robots in a physical loop of usability, weight, and heat dissipation. In flat factory workstations, legs can be removed, but in other environments, legs are irreplaceable.